Governor Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Launch Statewide Injury and Violence Prevention Strategic Plan
Wednesday, August 26th, 2026 -- 10:01 AM
Gov. Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) launched a statewide Injury and Violence Prevention Strategic Plan, outlining five areas for reducing injuries, experiences of violence, and violent deaths in Wisconsin.
The plan marks the first statewide injury and violence prevention plan in over a decade and was developed alongside state partners and focus groups.
The Wisconsin Injury and Violence Prevention Strategic Plan focuses on five topics of highest priority to Wisconsinites:
- Child maltreatment and abuse
- Intimate partner assault
- Intentional firearm injuries
- Unintentional drug overdoses
- Self-harm and suicide
The plan comes at a time when Wisconsin has seen a decline in violent deaths, driven mainly by decreases in homicides. Since 2022, Wisconsin has experienced a 19% decrease in homicides overall, with a 25% decline in firearm homicides, mirroring trends at the national level.
For the first time since 2018, overall firearm deaths in Wisconsin decreased in 2023 and 2024. During that time, Wisconsin experienced an 11% decrease in overall firearm deaths, compared to an 8% decline nationwide.
"In public health, a core piece of what we do is bring together partners from across the state to develop solutions and advance work which will continually improve health and well-being in every corner of Wisconsin," said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson. "This comprehensive plan aligns with the incredible work going on in communities across the state."
Intimate partner violence remains a major driver in homicides of women in Wisconsin. In 2023, intimate partner violence was a contributing factor in at least 49% of homicide deaths of women in our state.
"Every day, organizations and individuals work to protect against hazards that cause injury, harm, or death. This plan, alongside the work of schools, law enforcement, nonprofits, and more is one part of the broad, coordinated work to keep our communities safer," said Paula Tran, state health officer and administrator of the Division of Public Health.
"This unique opportunity brings our partners together to collaborate and explore new ways to address complicated issues, and we are excited by its potential to shape a safer Wisconsin for all of us."
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